There is a bounty of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and herbs at the Taylor Treehouse garden, and they are just waiting to be crafted into something delicious. The heat and humidity gave me the inspiration to make my own version of gazpacho that is a little smoky and a little spicy and based on ingredients from the garden.
The Harvest
The first step in making this garden-fresh cold soup is to gather your ingredients straight from the source. There is a profound difference in flavor and quality between local, freshly picked produce, especially tomatoes and cucumbers, as opposed to their counterparts that have traveled long distances. The vibrant colors and rich aromas of these garden gems will elevate your dish to a whole new level.
Infusing Flavors with Herbs
I am heavy handed when it comes to fresh herbs. They add a complexity of flavor and also nutrients to dishes. Fresh herbs are really easy to grow from seeds. In this recipe I used basil and parsley, which I have abundance growing in pots on my deck.
Benefits of Eating the Rainbow on Gut Health
This garden-fresh cold soup is not only a culinary delight but also a good for your health. By incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables, you are "eating the rainbow," which ensures a diverse range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants vital for gut health and overall well-being. The rich reds and yellows of the tomatoes and the bright greens of cucumbers, peppers, and fresh herbs contribute to a meal packed with phytonutrients which can help decrease inflammation and improve immunity.
Gratitude for Nature's Gifts
My garden has provided me with fresh produce that has sparked creativity in the kitchen. I feel blessed that I have access to local produce and a passion to cook. For me cooking with whole food plants is a way to celebrate nature's gifts while nourishing the body. The next time you feel the summer heat bearing down, head to your garden or local market, pick the freshest ingredients you can find, and make a bowl of summer vegetable cold soup that will leave you feeling refreshed.
Let the vibrant colors and flavors of the garden inspire your culinary adventures and follow my adventures in the kitchen. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or additional vegetables to create your own unique version. Enjoy the journey of creating a dish that not only tastes good but also honors the season's bounty in all its glory. Your taste buds and body will appreciate it. Enjoy!
Guide to Fresh Produce
Grow Your Own Edible Oasis
Small spaces: Even a tiny balcony can become a little garden with patio tomato plants and herbs.
Create a garden in your yard: Use raised beds or plant in the ground.
Community gardens: See if your area has community garden plots.
Support Local Farmers
CSA: Your personal produce provider: Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and enjoy a weekly box of seasonal goodies straight from the farm.
Farmer's market Explore your local farmer's market. Sample delicious treats, meet the farmers, and discover new culinary delights.
Friend with benefits: Know someone with a green thumb? A gardening buddy can be a goldmine of tips, tricks, extra seeds, plants and produce!
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